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Vaccination

Vaccination is the introduction of a weakened or killed microbe into the body in order to stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies against that microbe, in order to prevent diseases.17


Currently, there are two main types of poultry vaccines for avian influenza. However, since avian influenza is not commonly found in the U.S. and vaccination is not 100% effective, AI vaccination is generally not recommended. Practicing good biosecurity is your best approach to preventing avian influenza as well as other diseases.


The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has made the decision to not use any existing poultry vaccines to fight the current 2014-2015 AI outbreak.  For more information on the USDA's decision, visit Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and Vaccine Use.


For additional tips visit on vaccination, visit Vaccination and Medication Programs for Small Poultry Flocks

     




Vaccine
CDC Photo Library: Jim Gathany



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